Located just west of the southwest corner of the 610 Loop, east of Bob White Road, north of U.S. Highway 90 Alternate (South Main Street), and west of South Post Oak Road – adjacent to the Fondren Southwest and Meyerland neighborhoods – Westbury was named as the “Best Hidden Neighborhood” by the Houston Press.
Developed in the 1950s and 1960s by Ira Berne as part of the post–World War II migration to the suburbs, most of the 3,397 homes are one-story ranch-style homes with good “bones” and hardwood floors, features that are attractive to buyers interested in remodeling. Large lots and mature trees are also a big draw. Once a centerpiece of the neighborhood, the Westbury Square shopping center, designed by architect William J. Wortham, Jr. to look like an Italian village with many of its shops centered around a fountain, was ahead of its time. Ironically, many of today’s newer
centers duplicate this “village” model – with park-like gathering spaces that encourage pedestrian traffic and community activity – among them, nearby Uptown Park.
Even though much of Westbury Square’s original space has been lost to nearby development and only a few tenants remain, it remains open as a reminder of its once past glory. Still, Westbury’s proximity to those desirable shopping centers now in great favor, not to mention the Texas Medical Center, other major activity centers, Loop 610, and its easy access to downtown, have caused it to be seen as an emerging area again.
Prices are moderate for a neighborhood so close-in convenient location. Like Willow Meadows and Willowbend across the Loop, residents like its established neighborhood feel, and music magnet programs at Parker Elementary and Johnston Middle Schools have made it popular with families. While still affordable – especially compared with neighboring Meyerland – values are on the rise and Westbury has indeed become a neighborhood to watch.
